The Leaders’ Pledge consists of eight high-level commitments, shown below. Alongside each of these, a signatory commits to one or more practical steps they will take to fulfil their pledge. These steps can be tailored to suit the size, structure and resources of the individual business and how far it is already along its D&I journey. What matters most is that they are publicised, both internally and externally, to demonstrate that D&I will not be a box-ticking exercise, will not be consigned to silos within the organisation, but will be championed at the highest levels.
Unlike the main IP Inclusive EDI Charter – which the Leaders’ Pledge supplements – this is a commitment entered into by individuals not organisations. Intended for signature by managing partners, chief executives and others in senior, decision-making roles, it includes a promise to work alongside more junior colleagues to effect positive change. It can be signed by as many individuals from the leadership team as appropriate: the more the better.
The IP Inclusive Senior Leaders’ Pledge
I commit to:
1. Providing visible and proactive leadership to improve D&I in my organisation
2. Taking D&I seriously at the highest level
3. Embedding and valuing D&I throughout the organisational culture
4. Building trust and safe spaces throughout the organisation
5. Educating myself and my colleagues about D&I issues
6. Sharing my privileges
7. Insisting on equity
8. Working closely with HR and/or management colleagues to achieve this
The full pledge, with ideas for its implementation, can be downloaded here.
A supplementary pledge, relating specifically to commitment 6, has since been signed by many of the think tank members. In collaboration with our Careers in Ideas outreach campaign, its signatories have committed their organisations to certain practical measures for raising awareness of, and improving access to, the IP professions. You can read more about that initiative here.
We are now organising regular informal get-togethers for Senior Leaders’ Pledge signatories and their colleagues who help them implement the Pledge in their organisations. Known as “Pledge Prattle”, these are a chance to exchange ideas and support one another so that everyone in the sector can benefit from these leaders’ commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. You can find out more about the meetings here – or if you become a signatory, ask to be put on our invitation list.